Solar Eclipse in Antarctica Expedition

Explore the majestic icebergs, dramatic glaciers and snow-capped peaks of Antarctica and enjoy the chance to witness the incredible natural phenomenon of a total solar eclipse on this 25-night all-inclusive expedition cruise holiday, accompanied by an on-board team of scientists and experts

This luxury expedition cruise with a hotel stay in Buenos Aires gives the traveller a rare view of the wildlife and unique landscape of the Antarctic Peninsula with the added thrill of the chance to witness an extremely rare and very exciting full solar eclipse.

Sail along the South American coastline to visit remote towns and fishing ports. See unique wildlife in its natural wilderness habitat, including albatross, rockhopper, Magellanic and king penguins, and seals resting on moving ice floes. Explore the Falkland Islands visiting the nature reserve on New Island and stroll through the streets of Stanley, capital of the Falklands. Discover the breathtaking destination of South Georgia with its snow-covered mountains and sail across to the spectacular Antarctic Peninsula before crossing the legendary Drake Passage.

The cruise is accompanied by an on-board team of experts who will explain the wildlife, geology and marine life encountered along the way. Itineraries are intentionally unstructured, as following only a tentative schedule allows for moment-by-moment flexibility. The expedition leader will work closely with the Captain to maximise the opportunities for adventure and exploration. Inflatable Zodiac boats allow exploration of places that would otherwise be inaccessible and provide opportunities for up-close explorations.

SV770 Operated by Silversea

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Solar Eclipse in Antarctica Expedition Itinerary

Day 1 - Buenos Aires

Embark ship.

Day 2-3 - At sea

Enjoy the ship's facilities on relaxing days at sea.

Day 4 - Puerto Madryn

The Valdez Peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed nature reserve located on Argentina's Patagonian coast and is home to some of the country's most dramatic wildlife, from elephant seals to Magellan penguins, the southern right whale and a wide variety of birds.

Day 5 - Puerto Deseado

Puerto Deseado is a fishing port on the estuary of the Deseado River in Patagonia and was visited in 1833 by Darwin, who described the area as one of the most secluded places he had ever seen. Today it is well known for its wide variety of wildlife including black and white Commerson's dolphins.

Day 6 - At sea

Enjoy the ship's facilities on a relaxing day at sea.

Day 7 - New Island (Falkland Islands) - West Point Island

Today's adventure introduces the remarkable beauty of the remote Falkland Islands. Admire the amazing birdlife on New Island, including rockhopper penguins, albatross and king penguins, then watch out for Peale's dolphins and Commerson's dolphins as you approach West Point Island. Learn about the island's unique vegetation including the rare Felton plant.

Day 8 - Stanley

Stanley is the capital of the remote Falkland Islands, and has a distinct British ambience. Stroll through the charming streets of this colourful little town, lined with quaint cottages and a variety of traditional pubs. Visit the 19th-century Anglican cathedral and wander through the small local museum. Some lingering reminders of the 1986 Falklands War between Britain and Argentina may still be seen though the island has settled back to its quiet business of raising sheep.

Day 9-10 - At sea

Enjoy the ship's facilities on relaxing days at sea.

Day 11-13 - South Georgia

South Georgia is a beautiful and rugged island wildlife sanctuary. Its snow covered peaks, blue glacier ice and emerald green bays are breathtaking sights which can be explored from the ship's zodiacs. As well as being inhabited by many sea and land birds and seals, this area was explored by Captain James Cook and Ernest Shackleton. Possible visits include: Cooper's Bay where there is a zodiac expedition to see the icebergs and penguins; Gold Harbour where a large king penguin colony can be found; and Grytviken where there is a historic whaling station and burial site of famous explorer Shackleton and Salisbury Plain.

Day 14 - At sea

Enjoy the ship's facilities on a relaxing day at sea.

Day 15 - Total eclipse position

A full solar eclipse is extremely rare and very exciting and the total eclipse on 4th December 2021 will take place only in Antarctica. The ship will be positioned in the small path of totality for maximum effect when the bright light of Antarctica suddenly gives way to complete blackout. On-board expedition staff will share their insightful knowledge to help you gain a better understanding of this phenomenon.

Day 16 - Elephant Island (Antarctica)

It is from this island that Sir Ernest Shackleton set out for South Georgia in a small boat in 1916, undertaking one of the most remarkable sailing journeys of all time and returning 132 days later to rescue his men.

Day 17-19 - Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctica is one of earth's last great frontiers. Follows in the footsteps of pioneering spirits to a land of pristine and unspoilt landscapes. Our itinerary will be dictated by sea and weather conditions, but weather permitting, exploration of Antarctica's natural diversity continues. Passing thick pack ice which shimmers beneath a southern sky, watch out for icebergs and for whales breaching the surface of the water.

Day 20 - South Shetland Islands

The South Shetland Islands are made up of nine major islands and the region was the first to be used by sealers in the early 19th century. Chinstrap, Adelie, Gentoo and Macaroni Penguins all breed here.

Day 21-22 - Drake Passage

Returning to South America through the Drake Passage, the clarity of the air affords spectacular views of the southern night skies. This is the area known as the Antarctic Convergence where the cold polar water meets warmer equatorial water.

Day 23 - Ushuaia

Disembark ship in Ushuaia

For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.

Price Includes

22-night all-inclusive cruise

1-night pre-cruise hotel stay in Buenos Aires

Return flights from the UK and overseas transfers

Crew to guest ratio of nearly 1 to 1

Complimentary, hosted adventures ashore

Onboard gratuities

Complimentary fine wines, champagnes, spirits, bottled water and soft drinks served throughout the ship

Expert naturalists and special guest lecturers on board

Complimentary parka

Complimentary Wi-Fi

Butler service for all guests

Cruise Extensions

Buenos Aires and Iguazu Falls Extension Extend your holiday with a 3-night extension in Buenos Aires and Iguazu Falls. Please contact us for more details.